ABSTRACT
For First Nations in Canada, the land reflects a connection to ancestors, the provider of essentials for living, a link to culture and teachings, and a gift for future generations. Due to the centrality of land for First Nations' health and wellness, the British Columbia (BC) First Nations Health Authority, in collaboration with the Provincial Health Officer (PHO), embarked on a journey to honour First Nations' connections to land within their population health reports, beyond the highly entrenched Western views of the environment and land. The We Walk Together study was initiated to explore the connections between land, water, and territory as a determinant of health for BC First Nations. Land-based gatherings were held across diverse areas of this Canadian province to enable First Nations Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and youth to share teachings, knowledge, and experiences. The findings reinforced that the complexity of land and human health connections do not fit neatly into the logic of indicators and that Indigenous knowledge systems, which emphasize interdependence and reciprocal stewardship with all of our relations, offer solutions for advancing health promotion, equity, and sustainable development for all.
